LEGENDARY BLUES CRUISE by Anita Schlank
Many were a bit hesitant to get back on a cruise ship during COVID times, but after being assured by the numerous precautions that were taken by the cruise staff, those who braved the 35th LRBC to the Southern Caribbean were greatly rewarded. The wonderful sail-away party starring the soulful veteran Curtis Salgado began the adventure that provided blues fans with both the opportunity to see old favorites, (such as “bad boy” Johnny Rawls, singer songwriter Ruthie Foster, and accordion player J.R. Lauritsen), and to get introduced to some new rising stars. Many were previously unfamiliar with, but highly impressed by, the Ruf Records Blues Caravan, starring Jeremiah Johnson, Whitney Shay and Ryan Perry. Equally impressive was Jonathan “Boogie” Long, whose reputation led to perhaps the largest number of the booked musicians sitting in his audience to witness him sing and play. Hector Anchondo, winner of both the 2020 Best Solo/Duo Award and the Memphis Cigar Box Award (for best guitarist) demonstrated how he earned those honors, 10
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Images: Laura Carbone
and Tito Jackson shared songs from his recently released blues album. While all attendees were disappointed that Kenny Neal was unable to attend, they were soon excited about the unexpected opportunity to see his nephew, Tyree Neal, truly shine. Blues Cruisers are regularly treated to Tommy Castro on every cruise, but it seemed extra special that he was joined by Deanna Bogart. And fans also got to witness Deanna and Vanessa Collier playing saxophone together with Castro’s band. In addition, it’s always fun to watch Albert Castiglia and Mike Zito play together because their exceptional talent is only matched by their great senses of humor. But the addition of Joanna Connor as a third master guitarist
